Thursday, September 2, 2010

This past weekend I was able to announce the beginning of several new serving projects that God has brought to us here at Midtowne Church. In making those announcements I found myself getting emotional. I initially apologized but then said that I thought it was OK to show that emotion as I was talking. I still believe that to be true.

I have been blown away by the response from the people in our church and even people outside our church. it is so cool to be involved in a place where people truly want to serve and want to see God's Love shown in practical ways.

However, I think sometimes we allow our emotions to make decisions for us. Remember: Emotions do not make good decisions. I am always careful with my emotions when I am teaching because I don't want people to respond to an emotion. I don't want people to respond with their emotions. I want people to respond with their heart. I want their heart to be touched by God Himself and for Him to be the one who initiates any response we make.

Don't get me wrong here. I think emotions are great. God gave us emotions and I think they are a vital part of who we are. I think we should be passionate about what we do. I think we should give all that we are and all that we have to whatever God leads us to do. We just need to make sure we are not allowing our emotions to make our decisions for us. Even if that decision is a decision regarding something that helps build God's Kingdom.

My fear is that we get caught up in the emotion and volunteer for some project only to find that once we get involved, we are not really serving from our heart, in our "giftedness," or from our passion. Then we wind up frustrated, tired, and ultimately doing damage to that cause and ourselves.

So What?

When it comes to serving, make sure that you are feeling God's calling to the ministry project and not just feeling that burrito you had last night. Make sure you are following God's leading in your heart and not just getting wrapped up in an emotional response. You will find that you will be more fulfilled and the ministry will be more successful because it is being run by the people God wants involved.

Why "So What"

So What is the ultimate question.If, after hearing someone teach or talk to you about anything, especially the Bible, you cannot answer that question, you have wasted your time. We have to be able to apply what we have heard to our life. It's not a disrespectful thing. It's not a selfish thing. It's simply a way to make sure that you are getting the most out of the time you put in to listening and learning.

About Me

Doug Pruitt is the Lead Pastor of Midtowne Church in Benton, Arkansas. Midtowne is a new church that seeks to show God's love to the community in practical ways. Check out the church's web site for more information at http://www.midtownechurch.com.